HC Deb 23 July 1957 vol 574 c192
2. Mrs. Jeger

asked the Minister of Works whether he is aware of the unhealthy and uncomfortable conditions in which members of the British Embassy staff in Saigon have to work; and whether, in view of the special climatic difficulties there, he will expedite the installation of air conditioning.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Hugh Molson)

I agree that working conditions in the main Embassy offices are not satisfactory, and following a recent visit to Saigon by my officers an improvement scheme has been prepared. I hope that these improvements, including the provision of additional air-conditioning, will be made later this year.

Mrs. Jeger

While thanking the Minister for that reply, may I ask him whether he is aware that many of the officials in Saigon are working in very hot weather in compartments about the size of horse boxes and whether he will use all his influence to hurry up the improvement?

Mr. Molson

I know that officials of the Foreign Office are working under difficult conditions. Indeed, I said so. There is some doubt about the local electricity supply being adequate for purposes of the air conditioning but we regard the matter as one of urgency and hope to get it done in the course of the present year.